Tory Election Betting Probe: Welsh Secretary Calls for Compliance with Rules

The Tory election betting probe has taken a new turn as Labour suspends parliamentary candidate Kevin Craig following an investigation by the Gambling Commission. Craig, a PR boss standing in Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, admitted to placing a bet on the Tories winning in the Suffolk constituency he is contesting. He expressed deep regret and pledged to fully cooperate with the investigation.

In a related development, five more Met Police officers have been accused of placing bets on the date of the general election. The Gambling Commission passed on this information to the force, prompting the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards to launch an inquiry. The officers, who have not been arrested, are from various police commands.

The scandal has also led to the suspension of two Tory candidates under investigation by the Gambling Commission. Former Brexit minister Lord Frost has joined calls for Prime Minister to explain the delay in taking action against the candidates. Despite initially ruling out suspensions until the investigation was complete, the PM eventually withdrew support for the candidates.

The ongoing probe and suspensions have cast a shadow over the campaign trails leading up to the election on 4 July. The controversy surrounding the betting scandal continues to raise questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the conduct of candidates and officials involved.